With most types of cancer in dogs, there are no guaranteed treatments. However, because this is true of conventional treatments as well as alternative treatments--and because conventional treatments tend to be quite harsh, including chemotherapy, radiation and surgery--many veterinarians and pet guardians are turning to holistic options when pets are given this devastating diagnosis. In many cases, veterinarians and dog guardians are combining conventional medicine with holistic therapies to improve the dog's chances of recovery and quality of life.
Veterinarian
Any time you plan to add alternative, natural or homeopathic approaches to your dog's medical treatment, you should consult with a holistic veterinarian. A holistic veterinarian is not only a licensed doctor but also has training, education and knowledge in holistic medical approaches. With a diagnosis as serious as cancer, it's especially important you begin your dog's treatment with this step. You can find a holistic veterinarian near you by visiting the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association's website at http://www.ahvma.org/.
Herbs
One of the most common holistic treatments for dogs with cancer is the use of herbs. Herbs are often used to strengthen the pet's immune system while other treatments--including conventional medicines and other holistic remedies--are used to fight the disease. The herbs are often dried and added to the pet's food or given to the pet as a tea. Your holistic veterinarian will direct you to the correct herbs for your dog's particular type of cancer. Commonly prescribed herbs for dogs with cancer include red clover, burdock root, alfalfa, dandelion, milk thistle, astragalus, garlic and echinacea.
Nutrition
No matter what the illness, holistic medicine usually begins treatment by looking at the pet's diet. This is especially true in the case of canine cancer. Some holistic veterinarians even believe that additives, preservatives and chemicals in commercial pet foods may cause cancer in pets. In addition, holistic medicine insists on good nutrition to keep the immune system strong so the body can naturally fight off disease.
Your holistic veterinarian will likely recommend a homemade diet of human-grade ingredients. Dogs with cancer are usually put on a diet that includes few complex carbohydrates and simple sugars, but that have high quality digestible proteins and large amounts of unsaturated fats. It is also often recommended that food be heated for dogs that are suffering from cancer. This releases the aromas of the food and stimulates the ailing pet's appetite.
Supplements
A holistic veterinarian will likely recommend natural supplements to aid your dog's body in fighting the cancer. Supplements may be dependent upon the type of cancer from which your dog is suffering and the progression the disease has made. However, commonly prescribed supplements for canine cancer include certain digestive enzymes as well as antioxidants. Antioxidants often used include vitamins C and E, selenium and green tea.
Another common dietary addition recommended for dogs with cancer is 1 tbsp. of organic flaxseed oil mixed with a half cup of cottage cheese. This is blended and fed to the dog three times per day for three months. Called the Budwig Diet, this mixture is believed to add lipoproteins to the body's cells, which in turn reduce the size of cancer tumors.
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